Here's what folks are chatting about today on the bulletin boards: a lot of media discussion, actually--

If you're interested, pitch information for Giant Magazine.

Asking a very dangerous question: how much to pay freelancers? Experienced writers might think $1 a word is on the low side, newbies will take $10 a piece, even gift certificates (I know I did.)

Your pitch was accepted! Now what?

How soon to follow up after applying for a job? Depends on the feedback you've been getting but I would propose anywhere from a few weeks to a month is okay (yes, a month. Sometimes companies take a long time sorting through their applications). Especially if you can follow up with a question about the company or just a general thank-you and reminder that you can send them clips, etc.

If you gave a company a story idea in an editing test but they didn't hire you, do they own the story? Not unless you signed anything, baby.

An editor needs freelancers!

The essence of Essence?

Everyone loves a story of a freelancer who conquers awful editors.

Readers mourn and discuss the demise of the NYT Circuits section.

When there's nobody to pick up your slack when you're away, what do you say? Tell the important people ahead of time, don't let your away message do the talking.